A BOLTON aerospace firm heard about the benefits of investing in research and development programmes at a briefing organised by the North West Aerospace Alliance.

APPH (Bolton) Ltd was one of 20 delegates at the seminar which included a lecture on how major aerospace companies such as Rolls-Royce and Lucas have formed effective partnerships under the EU's Fifth Framework programme.

The event, which was jointly sponsored by the Alliance, the Society of British Aerospace Companies and the Department of Trade and Industry, was aimed at encouraging more small to medium-sized firms to look at the opportunities under the European initiative.

John Whalley, the alliance's chief executive, said: "The meeting represents one of the first moves towards greater co-operation and partnership between smaller aerospace companies across Europe.

Thrust

"It is encouraging that the North-west which has been one of the key centres for all manner of industrial developments should play a major part in this new thrust."

Aerospace companies wishing to know more about the schemes should contact the NWAA on 01282 604444.

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